CLARENCE HENRY, "LOOKING BACK" C/W "LONG LOST AND WORRIED," ARGO 5480 (REL.8/1964)

From 1956 to 1964, Clarence Henry made 14 singles for Chess Records’ Argo imprint. From a wild rock ‘n’ roll start with the improvised, multi-persona “Ain’t Got No Home,” Henry transformed from anything-goes novelty-maker to distinguished purveyor of Louisiana soul. Today we’ll hear his scarce final Argo single—his PhD in musical style and a pair of recording he would never better. Produced by Huey P. Meaux, they were not made in New Orleans but are redolent of its musical vibe.

“Looking Back” was co-written by Brook Benton, who recorded it in 1962 for his LP Singing the Blues. A strong song not released on single by 1964 (except in Australia), it was a wise choice and ideal for Henry’s pensive, thoughtful approach. Benton’s version is less invested; his cool persona forbade him get to het up. Henry is a far better performer of this song, which he sings as though every moment in it happened to him.

A heavier backup band plays those 12/8 swamp pop triplets like waves lapping at the shore behind Henry’s powerful stand. A bassist adds emphasis to certain moments, and woozy, lazy brass drifts in and out; a guitarist noodles, his presence pushed forward in the mix as the track goes on. This is a world-class performance of a song that got the treatment it merited in Clarence’s humble hands.

“Long Lost and Worried,” written by Mac Rebennack (BKA Dr. John), picks up the tempo and emphasizes the New Orleans vibe. It moves into a more modern soul sound, still colored with swamp pop but with an effort to approximate the Chicago style. It's a great combination, and Henry's gentle vocal approach, which emphasizes his relaxed phrasing, is well-considered. His hard-luck story is affecting, and the bright, looming presence of the horns adds a layer of emotion to the mix. The drummer turns in a powerful performance on this farewell to a label Henry had spent eight years with and passed through different musical phases while keeping the thing that made him Clarence Henry—so special and likable.

No mention was made of this record's existence; it fulfilled a contract and Henry was released to find another label. Five singles for Parrot Records and two for Dial followed; in late 1968, Henry took a sabbatical from recording for several years. His passing in 2024 reminded the world of his talent, and that he tended to be overlooked, despite the popularity of a couple of his tracks.

Tomorrow: Nashville r&b group The Velvets are back with a 1962 Monument Records single—two fine songs to get Monday rolling.